Go deep in Charlotte Amalie. Charlotte Amalie is the biggest city in St. Thomas, and it is also the port where all of the cruise ships dock. It stands to reason, then, that the majority of the overpriced tourist traps are in this town. While this is true, there are more authentic experiences there than you think. The crowded shops full of overpriced jewelry and Cruzan rum stop three streets in. Once you get past Back Street, the shops disappear, the ground begins to slope upwards, and the crowds begin to thin. Local restaurants with real St. Thomas cuisine line many of the streets, and you'll find that not only will your experience be more authentic, but it will also come down in price considerably.
Visit the second oldest synagogue in the Northern Hemisphere. Who would think that one of the continuously existing Jewish temples in the world is on St. Thomas? Known simply as The St. Thomas Synagogue, the current temple of worship was built in 1833 in the Saphardic style (Spanish Jewry), and has remained in constant use ever since. The floors are covered in sand, and the experience of visiting is unique and spiritual, no matter what religion you practice.
Visit a less crowded beach. While the majority of travelers (especially those who are only there for a day) visit either Magen's Bay or Coki Point, there are several other beautiful beaches that are much less congested. Limetree Beach, on the opposite side of the island from Charlotte Amalie, attracts couples mainly, and is off the beaten path. On the east side of the island is Secret Harbor, which, like its name, is much less populated.
Stay in a hotel or resort outside of Charlotte Amalie. If you want to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the island while lounging and relaxing at your hotel or resort, there are a number of options that are away from the touristy hustle and bustle of Charlotte Amalie. There are many resorts that are perched high above the town and look down onto the harbor. There are also a great many resorts on the farther tips of the island, both east and west. Because the island is not very big, you won't have to worry about being too far away from the shopping and restaurants of Charlotte Amalie. Nothing on the island is more than a 20- to 25-minute car ride away.
